Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Teenage Drinking Termination


It seems like a broken record when news stories say the same thing, such as, “Drunk Teenager Kills Best Friend in Police Chase.”  The stories are sad and exude many exasperated wails of pain in those personally touched by tragedy.  But there is hope.

Programs such as the successful Shattered Dreams done by the Glen Rose School District do much to curb underage drinking.  The first step in preventing teenage drinking and alcohol abuse starts at the parent.  The parents need open lines of communications with their children. 

Teenagers already in rebellious mode will have the most difficulty with resuming already strained communication.  Love and Logic books can help rescue that relationship so that mutual respect can develop.

Early underage drinking starts when there are no expectations discussed.  Parents need to tell their children, “No drinking until you are 21.”  That is an easy to understand expectation. 

Teenagers drink the most between 3 and 6 p.m., therefore it is paramount to have them participating in extracurricular activities.

Teaching your kids adequate coping and stress management strategies are also very important.  The best way is involving your children in church or spiritual meetings at home. 

At home, try to decrease family conflicts in front of children.  Increase parental supervision and let your children know that they are cherished.  Above all, do not make a show of drinking in front of your children, as that increases the risk that your children will do it.

Good luck Parents.  Let’s keep our children safe.

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